This autobiographical book is filled with Winger’s adventures during 35 years of mountaineering, climbing rock and ice, and world travel. The author has a real knack for telling stories. Some are hair-raising, some are a little crazy, and some had me laughing out loud.

Two Shadows is about more than climbing. It is the story of a boy who grew up in an atmosphere of neglect and abuse. He made numerous bad choices in life which resulted in his being sent to prison at age eighteen. While incarcerated, Winger turned his life around. He obtained his high school diploma, began taking college courses, and learned computer programming. Upon his release, he began a successful career in information technology.

In the introduction, this story is described as "an allegory for whatever personal summits we are attempting to scale. The mental fortitude, perseverance, and bonds of friendship needed to scale the peaks described here are no different than the qualities needed to excel in life in general." I would agree. Although much of the book is dedicated to mountain climbing stories, it is all about overcoming obstacles and reaching your goals in life.

A good read on several levels -- highly recommended. ( )